Search - Sprague Brothers :: Best of the EssBee CD's Volume I

Sprague Brothers
Best of the EssBee CD's Volume I
Genres: Pop, Rock

Track Listings (20) - Disc #1
1. Penetration
2. Hippy Hippy Shake
3. Rock Rock
4. Surefire
5. New Reason to Cry
6. You Only Live Twice
7. I'll Be True
8. Green Arrow
9. I'll Do It Every Time
10. Drum Boogie
11. Rock'n'roll
12. I Feel A Brand New Heartache
13. My Tender Heart
14. Praying Mantis
15. Since I Don't Have You
16. No One Wants My Love
17. Nesman Studios
18. Tall Tall Trees
19. Sunset in Tokyo
20. Just over a Girl

CD Details

All Artists: Sprague Brothers
Title: Best of the EssBee CD's Volume I
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 0
Label: El Toro/Wichita Falls Records
Original Release Date: 9/26/2005
Release Date: 9/26/2005
Album Type: Import
Genres: Pop, Rock
Style:
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 8437003699382

Synopsis

Product Description

For those who love pure, unadulterated, masterful rock 'n' roll, look no further than the "Best of the EssBee CD's ? Volume One" by the fabulous Sprague Brothers. From their earliest recordings in 1990 through their highly acclaimed Hightone CD's, the Sprague Brothers have forged a clear and steady path, as leader Frank Lee Sprague says, "Influenced by none, inspired by many." With their roots in hometown Wichita Falls, Texas, the Sprague Brothers travel the musical map, fusing their love for the music of fellow Texans Buddy Holly and Bobby Fuller with a touch of surf here and a touch of Merseybeat there, all blended into a superb and remarkable brand of rock 'n' roll uniquely Sprague. This first volume of "EssBee" recordings features songs from several albums previously released in extremely limited quantities. Highlights here are many: "Rock Rock" is searing rockabilly played with such authenticity and joyous abandon it would make any"revivalist" wilt with envy. Known for innovative arrangements, the Spragues reinvent the Skyliners' "Since I Don't Have You" into a Santo and Johnny style instrumental, while the big band staple "Drum Boogie" channels Bill Haley and shows off Chris Sprague's propulsive drumming. "I'll Do It Every Time" sounds like a lost Everly Brothers top ten hit and features the Sprague Brothers' always impressive harmonies. Several Frank Lee Sprague originals stand out, including "Nesman Studios," an autobiographical homage to Wichita Falls and the legendary studio where Buddy Holly recorded in 1955. Frank also demonstrates world-class prowess on his Fender Jaguar, dazzling us with instrumentals such as his Ventures-style "Green Arrow" and the unusual "Sunset in Tokyo," written on one of their successful tours of Japan. Throughout, their music is fresh, inspired and inspiring. There's no doubt the Sprague Brothers love what they do. You will too.

CD Reviews

Fabulous Rock 'n' roll!

Fred Burwell | Beloit, WI USA | 10/20/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hearing the Sprague Brothers' "Best of the EssBee CD's Volume 1" for the first time, made my day. Like a lot of people who love authentic rock 'n' roll, I'm often disappointed by so-called "revivalists." The Sprague Brothers, on the other hand, don't sound as if they are reviving anything. This is their music. It would be a mistake to pigeonhole the Sprague Brothers. Most unusually, they don't stick to one bag, but are true masters of the various genres of early rock 'n' roll, from rockabilly and boppin' country to surf and Texas-style rock 'n' roll to British Invasion style. Best of all, they mix it all up in their own way, with unique conviction and dedication (plus a great sense of humor)!

This album of rare recordings is a treat from start to finish. Along the way are many highlights such as their storming version of "Penetration" where Frank Lee Sprague's guitar rumbles and roars. There are amazing covers of "Hippy Hippy Shake" and "Tall Tall Trees", the spot-on rockabilly of "Rock Rock" and the pumping piano rocker, "Rock 'n' Roll", which sounds like a lost Jerry Lee Lewis hit.

At least half of the album features Frank Lee Sprague originals, classics in their own right, fresh-sounding and vital, from the lovely ballad, "My Tender Heart", to the autobiographical "Nesman Studios." There are also unusual and effective arrangements, such as turning the 50's style Addrisi Brothers song, "I'll Be True" into a Merseybeat raveup.

Throughout the album, the musicianship and singing is top shelf. Whether it's rockabilly or surf or any other brand of rock 'n' roll, Frank Lee Sprague plays lead guitar with fire and gusto, creating an exciting style recognizably his own. Chris Sprague's drumming never fails to propel the music.

If you love rock 'n' roll played with joy and spark, I highly recommend this CD and all the others by the Sprague Brothers and Frank Lee Sprague. I can't wait for volume two!"